Crime/Police
Governor Responds to Prison Escape, Convenes National Security Council
Governor Daniel Pruce has expressed concern over the escape of inmates Jose Almestica and John Burgos from His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut on Saturday night, October 25.
“I am very concerned by yesterday’s escape of Jose Almestica and John Burgos from HM Prison Balsam Ghut,” Governor Pruce said in a statement issued this morning Sunday October 26, “I am grateful to the prison team and the RVIPF for their swift responses.”
The Governor urged the public to follow the advice of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as the search for the two men continues. “Please do not approach them, but do pass any relevant information to the police or Crimestoppers without delay,” he added.
Governor Pruce confirmed that he is in touch with relevant agencies and members of the National Security Council (NSC) and will convene the NSC to meet on Monday to discuss the incident.
The RVIPF continues its Territory-wide search for Almestica and Burgos, who were discovered missing shortly after 9:00 p.m. Saturday. Authorities have not yet disclosed how the prisoners escaped. Police have reiterated their appeal for public assistance and urged anyone with information to contact 368-9339, 311, or Crimestoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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